Nina's Fund & Colitis Research

In November 2015, Nina was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis, which is a chronic disease that affects the colon. Essentially, inflammation created pain and other unwelcome symptoms. Despite trying all medicinal and dietary options over the last 18 months, Nina was forced to endure the only curative solution, surgery. Complicating matters further, the curative solution requires three surgeries spanning several months.

We admitted Nina on Tuesday April 26th, with the hope for surgery on Friday the 29th. Unfortunately, her nutrient levels were too low and needed to be boosted through a PICC line. (Think of a PICC line as a direct line from your arm to right above your heart that directly injects nutrients and medicines.) All trended well and Nina had her first surgery on Tuesday, May 2nd. The first 18 hours were great, but a blood clot developed and promptly sent Nina into tremendous pain and ultimately the ICU. The clot passed through the heart and landed in her left lung. The threat of clots remains as a result of a large clot which formed in her PICC line and remains in her right arm and shoulder. Unfortunately, this means that her stay in the hospital will continue.

People rarely prepare for surgical needs and ongoing hospital expenses and we are no different. The funding received will only cover her expenses. Any funding received above and beyond expenses will be donated to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation (www.chronscolitisfoundation.org) to continue research on this unfortunate disease. 

We have a wonderful support network of family and friends who are helping out with meals, rides, and child care. As a result, any donation provided is deeply appreciated to combat the financial impact of her multiple surgeries and treatment.

Thank you so much for your care, concern, and support. Nina will come out of this stronger than ever and we owe our gratitude to the thoughts, prayers, and love from all of you.